Photo: WENN

Stars of the music world, including Bob Dylan and Robbie Robertson, have paid tribute to Levon Helm after he passed away yesterday (April 19).

The Band's singing drummer was a well loved figure in the music scene and there was an outpouring of emotion when it was announced that Helm had lost his battle with cancer late last, night aged 71.

Writing on his official website, Bob Dylan said: - "He was my bosom buddy friend to the end, one of the last true great spirits of my or any other generation."

Adding: "I still can remember the first day I met him and the last day I saw him. We go back pretty far and had been through some trials together. I'm going to miss him, as I'm sure a whole lot of others will too."

Meanwhile, Robbie Robertson of The Band said - "I spoke with his family and made arrangements to go and see him. On Sunday I went to New York and visited him in the hospital. I sat with Levon for a good while, and thought of the incredible and beautiful times we had together … Levon is one of the most extraordinary talented people I've ever known and very much like an older brother to me."

Below are a whole host of tributes paid to Levon Helm via Twitter - including messages from Tom Morello, Courtney Love, Red Hot Chili Peppers and The Black Lips.

Courtney Love - RIP Levon Helm

Zooey Deschanel  - RIP LEVON HELM - a true inspiration

Patrick Carney, The Black Keys - one of the best singers and drummers and it all is sad.

John Stamos - "The way to do it is to put as much life into the song as I can. You can either get it to breathe or you can't." Levon Helm (1940-2012)

Glenn Kotche, Wilco - "Levon Helm was one of the most influential musicians our time... His impact on me cannot be overstated."

Flea, Red Hot Chili Peppers - Wow, Levon helm, let in on the big secret. Thanks to him for letting us in on the beauty of his earthling journey mystery. RIP. LOVEALWAYS

Billy Bragg - The greatest singing drummer that ever lived has fallen silent. RIP Levon Helm

Adam Levine, Maroon 5 - Levon Helm. He was THE BEST. Music is gonna miss him. One of the humble gods of rock and roll. Rest in Peace.

Tom Morello - Hey Levon Helm, thanks man for carrying The Weight of that backbeat (and great vocals) for decades. Inspired so many

Everything Everything - RIP Levon Helm and Bert Weedon. Take a load off.